Holiday Deals on Homes? Why Some Oklahoma City Sellers Offer Better Prices in December
Every December, while Oklahoma City fills with holiday lights, family gatherings, and winter events, the real estate market quietly shifts in ways many buyers don’t expect. You’ve probably heard whispers like, “You can get a better deal on a house around Christmas,” or “December is when sellers get motivated.”
But is any of that actually true? And if so, why would sellers lower their prices or become more flexible during a month when most people are more focused on shopping than house hunting?
If you’re considering buying before the new year—or simply want to understand how seasonal patterns affect pricing—here’s what really happens in OKC’s housing market during December.
Do Sellers Really Offer Better Prices in December?
In many cases, yes. But the reason isn’t just about lowering the price tag itself—it’s about increased flexibility, reduced competition, and stronger negotiating power for buyers.
What “better prices” often look like:
Lower list prices on stale listings
More price reductions on homes that didn’t sell in the fall
Sellers accepting offers below asking
Willingness to cover closing costs
Openness to repairs or concessions
More favorable terms like rate buydowns
So even if the actual listing price doesn't drop dramatically, your total cost of buying can be lower—and that’s what savvy buyers look for.
Why Would OKC Homeowners Be More Motivated to Sell in December?
Most sellers want to hit the spring surge. So when someone lists (or keeps their house listed) in December, there’s usually a reason behind it.
Common motivations include:
End-of-year job transfers (military, government, corporate relocations)
Need to close before the tax year ends
Carrying two mortgages and wanting relief
Moving closer to family before the new year
Trying to avoid relisting in January
A home that didn’t sell in the fall and now needs stronger incentives
Motivation creates opportunity. When a seller needs to move quickly, they’re more open to negotiation—especially in a month with fewer active buyers.
Does Lower Holiday Competition Lead to Better Deals?
Absolutely. December in Oklahoma City typically sees fewer buyers touring homes, making offers, or competing over the same listings.
This reduced competition gives you:
More time to evaluate each home
Less pressure to rush decisions
Fewer bidding wars (sometimes none at all)
A better chance at having your offer accepted on the first try
Buyers often search for phrases like “Is winter a good time to buy a house in OKC?” or “Why are holiday home prices lower?” And one of the biggest answers is simple: When fewer buyers compete, sellers pay attention to the ones who show up.
Are Sellers More Likely to Approve Concessions in December?
Yes—concessions are one of the most powerful (and underrated) ways buyers save money during the holidays.
These concessions often include:
Seller-paid closing costs
Home warranty coverage
Repair credits after inspections
Interest-rate buydowns
Prepaid items such as taxes or insurance
In hotter months, many sellers won’t entertain these requests.
In December? Many will—because they’d rather close before the new year than wait for spring.
This is especially true in neighborhoods like:
Edmond
Yukon
Moore
Mustang
South OKC
NW Oklahoma City
These areas see steady activity year-round, but December always leans in the buyer’s favor.
Do Homes Stay on the Market Longer in December?
Typically, yes—and that longer “days on market” is a quiet advantage for buyers.
Why this matters:
Homes that sit longer often:
Experience price reductions
Receive fewer showings
Make sellers more willing to negotiate
Push agents to encourage flexibility
A listing that’s been active for 30, 45, or even 60 days is far more likely to accept a lower offer in December than it would in April or May.
This is especially true if the seller was expecting a busy fall market and didn’t get the response they hoped for.
Does December Create Unique Timing Advantages for Buyers?
Absolutely. Beyond pricing and concessions, December offers timing perks many buyers don’t realize.
For example:
Lenders and title companies often have faster availability
Contractors are easier to book for repairs
Inspectors typically have more open schedules
Sellers want a clean slate before January 1st
Buyers can sometimes claim tax benefits if they close before year-end
Even though the market slows down, the professionals involved in home buying become more accessible, which helps buyers move faster and smoother.
Are Homes Still Good Quality, or Are “Holiday Listings” Just Desperate Sellers?
A common misconception is that homes listed in December are “problem houses.” That’s simply not true. Many excellent homes hit the market in December due to:
Job changes
Family transitions
Builders wanting to sell remaining inventory
Investors closing out portfolios
Sellers who bought a new home sooner than expected
Quality doesn’t drop—competition does. And that’s where buyers gain an edge.
Final Thoughts: Are December Home Prices Really Better in Oklahoma City?
While December doesn’t always mean massive price cuts, it often leads to better values, stronger negotiation power, and meaningful financial savings for buyers. With motivated sellers, lower competition, and more flexibility across the board, December can be one of the best times to find a true “holiday deal” in the Oklahoma City real estate market.
As you reflect on your timing and goals, consider this: If the market slows down for the holidays, why shouldn’t that work in your favor?
About the Justiz League Real Estate Team
The Justiz League Real Estate Team combines market data, local expertise, and strategic insight to guide Oklahoma City sellers and investors through every season. Whether the goal is maximizing equity, optimizing timing, or improving portfolio performance, our team helps clients navigate the OKC market with confidence and clarity.
